STRAWBERRY JALAPENO SPREAD

This sweet and spicy spread is great when mixed with cheeses and served with whole-grain crackers as snacks, appetizers, etc.  Also good served with hot buttered biscuits.

2 jars (18-oz each) strawberry preserves
1 jar (12-oz) pickled jalapeno pepper slices, well drained

Place the preserves and the pepper slices in the bowl of a food processor; pulse until peppers are finely chopped. 

Divide the processed mixture into half-pint or jelly jars, cover, and store in the refrigerator.

Serve as in on hot biscuits.

To serve as party foods:
1 block (8-oz) softened cream cheese
8 oz finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup strawberry jalapeno spread

Combine the cheeses in a medium bowl and beat until well blended.  Place in serving dish.  Spoon the spread over the cheese and serve with crackers.

To give as gifts, tie a pretty ribbon or bow around the neck of jars of spread and give the the above instructions for serving.